Copenhagen cruise port guide: What to see, do and eat in Denmark’s capital

Denmark’s effortlessly cool capital, Copenhagen, is an undisputed highlight of many Northern Europe cruise itineraries. With a burgeoning food scene, design heritage, and intriguing history (not to mention that famously high quality of life) it’s no wonder holidaymakers flock to the city each year in their millions.

So, if you’ve booked or are considering a cruise that calls in Copenhagen, or just want to know a bit more about this popular Scandi city, you’ll find all you need in this Copenhagen cruise port guide.

Where do cruise ships dock in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has three cruise docking areas, but Oceankaj (Ocean Quay) is the main one and where you’ll find most ocean cruise ships, including cruise lines like MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Located in the northern part of the city, Oceankaj is an easy 8km (5 miles) from the centre.

Other Copenhagen cruise ports include:

• Langelinie Pier – generally used by smaller ships and high-end lines. It’s closer to the city centre and within a 10-minute walk of The Little Mermaid. Azamara, Oceania Cruises and Windstar Cruises for example, often dock here.
• Nordre Toldbod – The smallest of the three docking areas in Copenhagen, this central berth is also sometimes used for smaller vessels and luxury lines like Silversea and Seabourn.

How to get from Copenhagen cruise port to the city centre

Whichever cruise port you are sailing into, it’s nice and simple to get into the city. 

From Oceankaj, cruise lines often arrange shuttle buses that drop passengers near central locations such as Kongens Nytorv or City Hall Square. 

If this is not an option, or does not align with your timings, public transport is straightforward: buses 164 or 27 run regularly and connect Oceankaj with Orientkaj Metro Station. From here, the M4 Metro is a speedy ride right into the heart of Copenhagen. 

Lastly, there’s always the option of a taxi, and a journey into town takes about 15 to 20 minutes and costs approximately DKK 200–300 (£22-£33).

If you’re docking in Langelinie Pier or Nordre Toldbod, reaching the centre is even easier. The pleasant 30-minute walk into the centre of town goes past several major sights, or, if you prefer to admire the city while sitting down, local buses and hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tours are also available directly from the pier area.

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Top things to see and do in Copenhagen

Whether you’re in port for a few hours or have the luxury of an overnight stay, Copenhagen is the ideal city for cruise visitors. One of the ultimate spots to visit is Nyhavn, the historic harbour flanked by colourful townhouses and bustling waterside restaurants. You’ll instantly recognise it from photos and is a great place to drink in the local atmosphere.

Just a short stroll away, The Little Mermaid statue is another must-see, and, at just 1.25 meters tall, you really do have to get up close to see it! Inspired by Danish-born Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairytale, the statue was unveiled in 1913 and became a symbol of Copenhagen virtually ever since. 

Copenhagen’s magical Tivoli Gardens – the second oldest operating theme park in the world decked out with twinkling lights, vintage rides and live entertainment – has inspired the likes of Walt Disney. With so much to see, this iconic amusement park requires a bit more time to explore, so do bear that in mind when you’re planning.

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For decades, Denmark has ranked among the happiest places in the world, and a trip to The Happiness Museum shows exactly why. Exhibits look at the topic from every angle from cultural to geographical, as well as dive into the science behind the happiness emotion. You’ll also discover the secret to how the Danish population remain in such good spirits despite the notoriously cold weather and dark winter days.

Get a feel for Danish royalty with a visit to the Amalienborg Palace, the official home of the Danish royal family from 1794 until today. Rosenborg Castle also scores highly in the royal architecture game, and this fairy-tale castle houses the Danish crown jewels.

And finally, for a spot of retail therapy, don’t miss Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street – Strøget. Stretching almost a mile long, everything from souvenir stalls and high-street shops to international designer brands, plus renowned Danish homewear designers and shops – ideal for bringing a little slice of ‘hygge’ home. For independent boutiques, head to Jægersborggade Street, which is lined with some of the best shops in Copenhagen.

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Where and what to eat in Copenhagen

No, it’s not all cinnamon buns and smoked fish (though both are always worth having). Since kickstarting the Nordic cuisine movement in the early 2000s, Copenhagen has developed an incredible food scene at every corner, boasting 16 Michelin-starred restaurants. Even with a short time ashore, you can get a good flavour of what the city has to offer.

If you’re near Nyhavn, try one of the harbour-side cafés for a classic Danish open sandwich known as smørrebrød – topped with ingredients like herring, prawns, or roast beef.

Close to the city centre and easy to get to, Torvehallerne is a wonderful food market packed with local vendors. It’s a great spot to sample Danish delicacies or grab a picnic for the park.

For a relaxed local favourite, head to the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen) in Vesterbro – it’s a little further out, but home to some of the city’s best street food, brunch spots and laid-back bistros. And of course, there’s no shortage of bakeries throughout the city that serve up flaky, buttery kanelsnegle (cinnamon buns) that you’ll be dreaming about for years to come. Locals say La Cabra’s are the best.

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Tips for cruise travellers to Copenhagen cruise port

Copenhagen is beautifully easy to explore and welcoming to visitors. The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK), but you’ll find that credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. While Danish is the official language, English is widely spoken, making navigation and conversation simple.

For those keen to keep their carbon footprint light, Copenhagen is one of the greenest cities in the world. Consider renting an electric bike to explore sustainably, while also having a fun ride!